Are boats the answer to London's housing crisis? Photograph: Katherine Rose for the Observer

Much has been made of the government's attempt to reform planning policy, provide new homes through the new homes bonus and ensure that those who need housing have access to it through the welfare reform bill. Yet concerns persist about a yawning gap between London and the rest of the country.

The capital has its own unique housing problems which a single national policy would struggle to resolve: spiralling rents driven by an ever-growing demand for housing; large numbers of low income workers; high competition for jobs. In a recent poll we asked if there should be one policy for London and another for the rest of the country. The response from housing network members was clear - 70% of you voted yes.

Can London make the most of the government's policy decisions while still protecting vulnerable communities? Changes to housing benefit could force some families out of their home while campaigners fear the risk of overcrowding, and believe the new single room rate could disporortionately hit young people.

So what can the capital city do to ensure it tackles the housing crisis it is now facing? Join our panel live from 12pm on Monday 12 September or post your comments and questions below now.

Panel:

Professor Peter Ambrose is professor of housing and health at Brighton University and has written seven books on housing issues

Brendan Sarsfield is chief executive of Family Mosaic. He was appointed in June 2006 when the organisation was created through the merger of Family Housing Group and Mosaic Homes

Nigel Minto is head of housing and planning at London Councils

James Pargeter leads the residential projects team at Drivers Jonas Deloitte. James is also a member of the Homes and Communities Agency's design and sustainability advisory group

Perry Singh is assistant director of housing at the London borough of Brent. He chairs London Councils' housing needs and homelessness group and is the lead on welfare reform for London Councils Housing Directors

Rachael Orr is London campaigns manager at housing and homelessness charity Shelter

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